About the Teacher

Tai Chi Classes

​Originally developed in ancient China for self-defense, tai chi has evolved into an exercise characterized by gentle, flowing movements. Tai Chi is now used to address numerous health conditions, to proactively improve overall health, for rehabilitation following illness or injury, and to reduction stress and anxiety. Often described as meditation in motion, tai chi has been clinically shown to have positive effects on the body, mind and spirit.

Practicing Tai Chi helps to improve muscle strength, flexibility and overall fitness. Muscle strength is important for supporting and protecting joints and is essential for normal physical function. Flexibility exercises enable people to move more easily, and facilitate circulation of body fluid and blood which enhances healing. Fitness is important for overall functioning of the heart, lungs, and muscles. In addition to these components, tai chi movements emphasize weight transference to improve balance and prevent falls. Tai Chi has also been prescribed for depression, anxiety, PTSD, and to enhance the overall sense of well-being.

In addition to the physical and emotional benefits associated with practicing tai chi, it is also used to cultivate the qi or “life energy” within us to flow smoothly and powerfully throughout the channels and meridians of the body. Total harmony of the inner and outer self comes from the integration of mind and body, empowered through healthy and unobstructed flow of qi through the body.

We use Dr. Paul Lam’s, “Tai Chi for Health” programs as a basis for most of our classes. Dr. Lam is founder and director of the Tai Chi for Health Institute. Dr. Lam is a retired medical doctor and is also a tai chi master. He has modernized tai chi incorporating both his expertise in the ancient art of tai chi and his medical knowledge to help deliver the associated health benefits more quickly. Dr. Lam’s Tai Chi for Health programs have been endorsed by the National Arthritis Foundation and the Center For Disease Control (CDC). His programs have been taught to and have helped over 8 million people worldwide and Dr. Lam has now traveled over 1 million miles teaching his methods of instruction.

All participants are encouraged to stay within their own personal comfort zones during classes and should, as always, check with their physician to determine whether they are healthy enough to participate in the classes.